EBA is characterized clinically by blisters, scars, and milia primarily at the trauma-prone areas

Autoantibodies target Type VII collagen

What is Bullous Pemphigoid?

Large, tense subepidermal bullae

May see erythematous patches and/or urticarial plaques

Do not spread with lateral shearing

Mucous membranes infrequently involved

What is Pemphigus Vulgaris?

Thi-walled, flaccid bullae which are easily ruptured

Erosion frequently present

Mucous membranes frequently involved

Nikolsky sign - lateral shearing produces blister

Treatment: high dose glucocorticoids +/- other immunosuppressants

How do you treat bullous pemphigoid?

Bullous pemphigoid is a chronic, vesiculobullous eruption that predominantly involves nonmucosal surfaces. It is characterized by subepidermal vesicles and blisters that are tense and do not rupture easily.

Clobetasol is effective in controlling skin lesions in elderly patients with moderate and extensive bullous pemphigoid.

Prednisone at a dose of 1 mg/kg/d had been standard initial therapy for bullous pemphigoid; however, its use in elderly patients is complicated by high rates of morbidity and mortality. Prednisone should be reserved for patients with severe bullous pemphigoid. The risks of systemic corticosteroid use, particularly in the elderly are significant and must be weighed against the benefits, particularly when effective alternatives are available.

How do you diagnose lentigo maligna?

A broad, shallow shave biopsy is the preferred method for diagnosis of lentigo maligna.

What is Drug hypersensitivity syndrome?

Drug hypersensitivity syndromes are classically associated with anticonvulsants, allopurinol, dapsone, and NSAIDs. They begin 3 to 6 weeks after the initiation of therapy. Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (lisinopril) are not commonly associated with hypersensitivity drug eruptions. In addition, patients with hypersensitivity drug eruptions typically present with widespread erythema that evolves over weeks rather than days and skin that is itchy more than painful, as well as facial swelling, lymphadenopathy, eosinophilia, atypical lymphocytosis, and elevated aminotransferases.

Who is most commonly affected by Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome?

Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome (SSSS) may be difficult to differentiate from pustular psoriasis, as it also presents with widespread erythroderma and skin pain. It is most common in children less than 6 years of age, but adults with underlying immunosuppression or renal failure may be affected.